Signs Of Erectile Dysfunction

Signs Of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction sign: You don’t think about sex as much as you used to

If the stuff that usually gets you going just isn’t working anymore, there’s a good chance that your testosterone levels are lower than normal.

Testosterone is the main hormone responsible for your sex drive, explains New York-based urologist and sex expert David Shusterman, M.D. If it plummets, your desire to get going in the say may, too.

And if you’re not really in the mood, getting hard will be next to impossible.

Along with a lack of sexy thoughts, you may also notice some other signs of low testosterone, like fatigue or mood changes, difficulty building muscle, or even developing a gut.

What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. It’s also sometimes referred to as impotence.

Occasional ED isn’t uncommon. Many men experience it during times of stress. Frequent ED can be a sign of health problems that need treatment. It can also be a sign of emotional or relationship difficulties that may need to be addressed by a professional.

Not all male sexual problems are caused by ED. Other types of male sexual dysfunction include:

premature ejaculation

delayed or absent ejaculation

lack of interest in sex

What causes ED?

There are many possible causes for ED, and they can include both emotional and physical disorders. Some common causes are:

cardiovascular disease

diabetes

hypertension

hyperlipidemia

damage from cancer or surgery

injuries

obesity or being overweight

increased age

stress

anxiety

relationship problems

drug use

alcohol use

smoking

ED can be caused by only one of these factors or several. That’s why it’s important to work with your doctor so that they can rule out or treat any underlying medical conditions.

Prescription Pills

Approximately 70 percent men see an improvement in their erection with the use of prescription pills such as Tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), avanafil (Stendra), vardenafil (Staxyn), and sildenafil (Viagra). These drugs, however, should not be taken without consulting a physician.

Who's at risk for erectile dysfunction?

You may be at a greater risk for erectile dysfunction if you:

Are getting older

Have a psychological condition like anxiety, depression, or stress

Suffer from medical conditions such as a heart disease or diabetes

Use tobacco

Use drugs and alcohol

Are overweight

Are undergoing medical treatment such as radiation treatment for cancer

Are taking medications such as antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, or antidepressants

Have an injury that might damage the nerves or arteries that contribute to erections

How Diabetes Causes ED

Human sexual response requires several different body functions to work properly and together: nerves, blood vessels, hormones, and psyche. Unfortunately, diabetes—and even the treatment for diabetes—can affect many of these functions.

Nerves: One of the most common complications of diabetes is neuropathy, or nerve damage. Erection is a function of the parasympathetic nervous system, but orgasm and ejaculation are controlled by the sympathetic system. Neuropathy to either system can cause ED.

Blood Vessels: Diabetes damages blood vessels, especially the smallest blood vessels such as those in the penis. Diabetes can also cause heart disease and other circulatory problems. Proper blood flow is absolutely crucial to achieving erection. “Erection is a hydraulic phenomenon that occurs involuntarily,” says Arturo Rolla, MD, of Harvard University School of Medicine. “Nobody can will an erection!” Anything that limits or impairs blood flow can interfere with the ability to achieve an erection, no matter how strong one’s sexual desire.